The “Twilight” Buffer Zone

On November 19, 2013, the Muskoka Conservancy presented a workshop on problem Canada Geese. The workshop gave interesting facts about the bird such as its near extirpation from Ontario fifty-six years ago and the rebound to over 7 million birds in North America. The reason for the rebound is often cited as a result of climate change and an altered landscape. The workshop also outlined problems associated with too many geese (unaesthetic and public health) and options to manage Geese on waterfront property. Being mindful that Canada Geese are protected under the Migratory Bird Convention Act many property owners get creative when dealing with problem geese - from motion-sensor sprinklers to cannons on timers. The Conservancy’s workshop outlined a need to first identify why Geese come onto shoreline properties and a strategy on limiting what geese like best – a safe space and lawns.

When geese find expansive lawns there is a clear view of potential predators. It is there that they will congregate because the plan of escape is back into the water. The waterfront owner’s goal then, is to break up the large groups of geese and take away safe plentiful habitat. Some ways include a line of string across shoreline (at the right height); electric fences (the wire must be make contact at the breast bone); letting the dog out; and most importantly, managing property with a buffer strip of vegetation to cut off geese’s view of your property from the water. The higher and thicker the buffer, the more geese are intimidated to cross. It takes time to create a sufficient buffer for early spring when geese are looking for nesting sights yet, if property owners commit for the long term, the numbers of geese will drop off over time. The buffer needs to be 3 metres deep and the best approach includes a winding path to or from the buffer.

What has your experience been for managing problem geese?